What do you feel were the main trends and key industry developments in 2022?
2022 has been a challenging year, with a wealth of economic issues affecting both the general public and businesses across many sectors. The print industry is no exception, with many PSPs [print service providers] being impacted by rising costs fuelled by factors such as high energy prices.

As well as a continuation of trends such as automation, 2022 has seen an increase in demand for technology that enables PSPs and their customers to be more environmentally friendly and energy efficient – highlighted by events such as COP27 taking place in the second half of the year.

In particular, we have seen many PSPs in the publishing industry embracing sustainable methods of production – for example by pivoting to shorter runs using inkjet technology. ‘Book on demand’ printing has also become a more attractive option as it reduces waste and storage needs - alongside localised printing, which can help to support the UK economy as well as saving on transport costs.

How have the numerous economic, political, and supply chain challenges that have dominated 2022 affected you and your customers, and how have you had to react?
The economic situation has naturally seen many PSPs reassessing their technology performance - and we have therefore been working in partnership with our customers to identify how our devices can work harder for them – and be more productive and efficient.

Fuelled partly by labour shortages across the industry, we have also seen increasing demand for our automation software - as it helps to streamline workflow processes, reduce waste and lower energy consumption. All of which are attractive factors in these challenging times.

We have also seen tighter marketing budgets having an effect on our customers' output - driven by an increase in lower cost digital advertising. For many PSPs, this has provided an opportunity as some brands are seeking out innovative POS and creative campaign touchpoints which will help them better engage with consumers and cut through the digital noise.

How have your relationships with customers and their expectations from you as a supplier changed in the past 12 months?
We have been focusing on developing long term partnerships with our customers and reaffirming the fact that our technology is built to last – this is supported by our constantly evolving R&D. Our focus is for our customers to benefit from the expertise and customer service of a global market leader – and build confidence that their investments will support them for the future. We also offer counsel and advice around new revenue streams – and ways that businesses can thrive through the use of our technology.

What do you expect to be the main trends, key industry developments, and biggest opportunities for printers in 2023?
Economic challenges are likely to continue in 2023 alongside high expectations for sustainable devices, inks and substrates. Remanufacturing, field-upgradeable technology, and environmentally friendly processes are also set to be of high importance. 

Automation is also likely to remain high on the agenda in 2023 as PSPs seek technologies that can help to reduce turnaround times, increase production levels and potential returns.

Finally, by prioritising versatility and personalisation as well as new formats and designs, a wealth of opportunities will be opened up for many PSPs – helping them to deliver a competitive advantage and expand into new markets in the long term.

How can suppliers better help printers navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities in 2023?
Suppliers will need to continually evolve their technology to help ensure that devices are working as efficiently as possible for customers – and that they are supported during challenging economic times.

Customer demands have evolved rapidly over the years and the expectation for printers to deliver leading efficiency with high image quality, whilst being cost-efficient and sustainable will likely continue. Our inkjet technology is a great example of how we can support our customers in this area through its higher productivity, lower energy use and lower costs.

How can suppliers do more to promote the effectiveness of print to the broader business community?
Many PSPs are now expected to deliver counsel on the latest communication techniques to bolster their customers’ campaigns. We’re therefore working closely with our customers to advise them on the power of printed assets, and how these can be combined with activities such as personalisation in the broader marketing mix.

We are focused on long term partnerships with customers, offering counsel on new revenue streams and how our global technology expertise and R&D commitment can help them to expand their business for the future.

Note: This prediction is taken from a special Briefing article in the new issue of Printweek featuring insights from industry suppliers, hence it does not follow the same question template as the other predictions.